The picturesque backdrop of Gippsland’s Bass Coast will again be on show when the acclaimed Tour of Gippsland returns from August 25 to 27.
The Phillip Island town of Rhyll plays host again for an exciting opening criterium before the racing moves to stages on the famous Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Bass Coast Shire Mayor Michael Whelan is excited to welcome the Tour back to Phillip Island.
“Bass Coast Shire Council is excited to welcome back the Tour of Gippsland to Phillip Island in August. We proudly look forward to sharing our stunning home and world-class views with riders, from rolling hills to striking cliffs to powerful waves and marine parks,” Cr Whelan said.
Cyclists from around the country and from New Zealand will compete in the three-day event which forms part of AusCycling’s premier National Road Series.
The Tour will consist of four stages over three days, August 25-27, and host the Men’s and Women’s National Road Series teams.
“Events like the Tour of Gippsland are vital to Bass Coast, driving tourism in our off-season, as we’re the second most dependent shire on tourism in Australia, after only Uluru.
Winter is a perfect time to explore Rhyll, Cowes, Newhaven, San Remo, Wonthaggi and more. Our restaurants and cafes are just as delicious, our reserves and beaches just as impressive, but without the crowds’ visitors can enjoy more space as well as time,” Cr Whelan said.
This event is also one of only three events in the country to host an under-19 development category, where we will see the best of cycling’s emerging talent.
“I look forward to seeing guests and locals alike at the Tour of Gippsland, a brilliant challenge for all cycling lovers,” Cr Whelan concluded.
The event is supported by the Victorian Government, Bass Coast Shire Council, and Destination Gippsland and will showcase the Bass Coast to interstate and overseas visitors.
A daily highlights package will be available through the SBS On Demand platform.